Recycling Operations Manager

We're seeking an experienced Recycling Operations Manager to establish and lead our plastic recycling facility from startup through full-scale operations. You'll be instrumental in building our team, developing processes, ensuring compliance, and driving our sustainability mission forward.This is more than a job – it's a chance to shape the future of plastic recycling in Canada and be part of the solution to one of our most pressing environmental challenges. ResponsibilitiesEstablish & Oversee Operations - Build and manage all recycling plant operations from ground up, including collection, sorting, processing, and quality controlTeam Leadership - Recruit, train, and lead a high-performing operations team focused on safety, efficiency, and sustainability Regulatory Compliance - Ensure adherence to federal and provincial environmental regulations, Federal Plastics Registry requirements, and EPR frameworksProcess Optimization - Implement continuous improvement strategies to maximize materials recovery rates and operational efficiency Financial Management - Manage facility budgets, equipment procurement, vendor relationships, and P&L responsibilitiesStrategic Partnerships - Develop relationships with municipalities, manufacturers, EPR programs, and industry stakeholders Technology Implementation - Deploy modern recycling technologies, quality control systems, and data analytics toolsSafety & Culture - Create and maintain a workplace culture centered on safety, environmental stewardship, and excellenceEducation:Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Waste Management, Operations Management, or related fieldOR 7+ years of progressive management experience in recycling/waste management operationsMBA or advanced degree is a plusCertifications (CRP, LEED, ISO 14001) highly valuedExperience:Minimum 5-7 years in recycling operations, waste management, or materials recovery facilitiesProven leadership managing plant operations, teams (10-50+ employees), and budgets ($1M+)Direct experience with plastic recycling processes (sorting, shredding, washing, pelletizing)Experience with startup operations or facility launches strongly preferredKnowledge of mechanical recycling and/or advanced recycling technologiesTechnical Expertise:Deep understanding of plastic resin types (PET, HDPE, PP, LDPE, etc.) and recycling processesFamiliarity with recycling equipment: balers, conveyors, optical sorters, shredders, granulators, washing systemsQuality control standards and contamination prevention protocolsCanadian environmental regulations and compliance requirementsFederal Plastics Registry (FPR) reporting and EPR program frameworksIndustry Background:Candidates with experience in one or more of these industries:Plastic recycling facilities or Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs)Waste management and environmental servicesPlastics manufacturing (injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming)Circular economy initiatives or sustainability programsReverse logistics or product take-back programsChemical/advanced recycling technology companiesMunicipal waste collection and processing operationsWhy Join Us?Impact:Be part of Canada's Zero Plastic Waste StrategyContribute to circular economy transformationMake a measurable environmental difference every dayGrowth:Ground-floor opportunity in a growing industryEquity/ownership opportunities as we scaleCareer advancement potentialProfessional development and training supportCompensation & Benefits:Competitive salary with performance bonusesComprehensive health, dental, and vision coverageProfessional development budgetWork with a mission-driven, passionate team.